Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Parmesan Soup

INGREDIENTS

2 14 ounce 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 Tablespoon fresh oregano

1/4 cup

fresh basil

4 cups

chicken broth

1/2

bay leaf

1/2 cup

butter

1/2 cup

flour

1 cup

grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups

half and half (, warmed (substitute milk for less calories))

1 tsp

salt

1/4 tsp

black pepper

optional cooked orzo pasta