Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once boiling, add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water for later use.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add the Halal Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it into chunks with a spatula. Cook until browned and thoroughly cooked, approximately 5-7 minutes.

Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Let this simmer for around 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Add the cooked bow tie pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the mixture seems too dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.

Divide among plates, garnishing with fresh basil or parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.