Minestrone With Kale

Name: Minestrone With Kale
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon oil, for sauteing; 1 large yellow onion, chopped; 2 carrots, finely chopped; 4 garlic cloves, finely minced; 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes; 1 (15 ounce) can white beans, rinsed and drained (Cannellini, Great Northern, navy); 1 bunch kale, stemmed and coarsely chopped (about 3/4 pound); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped; 6 cups vegetable stock (or half stock and half water) or 6 cups water (or half stock and half water); 2 bay leaves; 1 cup small shell pasta, cooked (elbow macaroni, shells, etc.); salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste