Step 1

Bring water to a boil in a large pot over high heat. Season the water with 1 tablespoon salt. Add pasta and cook for 1 minute less than directed on the package, usually 6 to 7 minutes. Reserve 1 1/2 cups of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta well.

Step 2

Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and heat for another minute. Add garlic and rosemary and cook until the rosemary is fragrant and crispy, 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer the rosemary to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain. Continue to cook the garlic until golden brown, about 1 minute. Using a slotted spoon, remove and discard the garlic.

Step 3

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and, before combining with the oil in the pan, sprinkle the bare pasta with cheese, lemon zest and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt. Add 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water and begin tossing to coat the pasta in the light cheese sauce. Continue to toss, adding more pasta water as needed, to create a creamy sauce. Season with pepper and serve topped with additional cheese, crispy rosemary needles and more pepper, if desired.