Gather your ingredients so you have everything close at hand on the counter.
Prepare the Ingredients
Using a sharp knife and cutting board, chop the sweet onion. Dice the red and green bell peppers. Mince the garlic. If using fresh herbs, you may also chop the fresh basil, parsley, and oregano, if desired. (1 tablespoon fresh herb = 1 teaspoon dried herb)
Make the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet or shallow Dutch oven, brown the sausage. Remove from pan and drain on paper towels.
In the same pan add olive oil and saute the prepared onion, bell peppers, and garlic until tender. Add petite diced tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, and seasonings. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Add the cooked sausage to the tomato sauce and continue simmering for 7-10 minutes.
Prepare the Pasta
While this is simmering, prepare the bow tie pasta as directed on package label. Boil for 10-11 minutes to al dente.
Transfer pasta to the sausage tomato sauce and mix until incorporated.
To serve, spoon pasta and sausage tomato sauce on individual plates. Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired. Serves 6-8.