Onions, Garlic and Olive Oil

Why do so many simple and delicious dishes start with sauteing onions and garlic in olive oil?
This struck me tonight as I was throwing together some Bean Soup for supper.  Check out how easy this soup is....

Red and White Bean Soup
saute:
1/2 onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 Tbsp olive oil
add:
4 cups water
2 veggie bouillon cubes
1 Tbsp Italian seasoning 
1 can white kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 lg. can diced tomatoes
simmer until everything is hot and the flavours have melded together.

This soup is gluten free, too! You could add 1/2 c of barley or pasta (which would make it not gluten free), or 1/2 c of rice.  You'd just have to simmer it a bit longer to cook the grain.

Excuse me while I go stir the soup.

:)