Barley Peasant Soup Recipe

1 pound beef stew meat, cut into 3/4-inch cubes 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 cups chopped onions 1 cup sliced celery 2 garlic cloves, minced 5 cups water 5 cups beef broth 2 cups sliced carrots 1-1/2 cups medium pearl barley 1 can (15 ounces) garbanzo beans or chickpeas, rinsed and drained 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed and drained 4 cups sliced zucchini 3 cups diced plum tomatoes 2 cups chopped cabbage 1/4 cup minced fresh parsley 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1-1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning Salt and pepper to taste Grated Parmesan cheese, optional