Tomato & Basil Parmesan Soup

So I didn't capture the most appetizing picture of this soup.  To tell you the truth, this picture is from a couple days later as the hubby was eating up the last little bit, I borrowed his bowl - mid lunch - so I could grab a picture since I had forgotten the day we made it!  Oh well, click here for the original and you'll see its mighty appealing! 

While its not the best pic, this soup was so yummy!  It was warm, comforting, and not too thick and heavy.  We made grilled cheeses for dipping and eating alongside.  It was the perfect combination!

Tomato & Basil Parmesan Soup
courtesy of 365 Days of Slow Cooking
yields about 2 quarts

Ingredients:2 (14 oz) cans diced tomatoes, with juice
1 cup finely diced celery
1 cup finely diced carrots
1 cup finely diced onions
1 tsp dried oregano or 1 T fresh oregano
1 T dried basil or 1/4 cup fresh basil
4 cups chicken broth (I have started using half water to save some $ and don't think you can notice much)
½ bay leaf
1/4 cup flour
1 cup Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup butter
2 cups half and half, warmed (I actually did half milk, half half & half)
1 tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper

Method:
1.  Add tomatoes, celery, carrots, chicken broth, onions, oregano, basil, and bay leaf to a large slow cooker.
2.  Cover and cook on LOW for 5-7 hours, until flavors are blended and vegetables are soft.
3.  About 30 minutes before serving prepare a roux. Melt butter over low heat in a skillet and add flour. Stir constantly with a whisk for 5-7 minutes. Slowly stir in 1 cup hot soup. Add another 3 cups and stir until smooth. Add all back into the slow cooker. Stir and add the Parmesan cheese, warmed half and half, salt and pepper.  Add additional basil and oregano if needed (the slow cooker does a number on spices and they get bland over time, so don't be afraid to always season to taste at the end).
4.  Cover and cook on LOW for another 30 minutes or so until ready to serve.