Very Merry Minestrone Soup

1 can beans, rinsed & drained (or 2 c. home-cooked)
2 qt. chicken
2 or 3 stalks celery
2 or 3 slices onions
1/4 head cabbage, shredded
3 or 4 carrots, sliced
1/2 tsp. minced garlic
1 tsp. oregano
1 tbsp. parsley
2 bay leaves
1 c. cooked pasta
Grated Italian cheese

In a large soup pot, put stock, celery, onions, cabbage, carrots, oregano, parsley and bay leaves. Simmer 1/2 hour then add pasta. Cook slowly until pasta is tender, adding more liquid if needed. Finally, add beans, salt and pepper and top with cheese just before serving.