How to Make Frozen Pesto Cubes Using Muffin Tins

While most how-to’s for frozen pesto cubes use ice cube trays, I’ve found that muffin tins work much better because the size is just right.

Why Freeze Pesto

Making pesto with the remainder of the summer’s basil has become a tradition in our household. I love pesto because of its versatility—not only is it great with pasta, but it makes a tasty topping for pizza and can even be used as a sandwich spread. Freezing pesto is the perfect way to enjoy a little bit of summer for at least a few months into fall and it’s a good timesaver when you need a quick dinner.

My basil was determined to start flowering, no matter how many times I clipped the buds off of it, so I decided last weekend it was time to make our annual ginormous batch of pesto. In the past, I’ve frozen it in bags, Tupperware, and ice cube trays. The ice cube trays worked well, but they didn’t really match the serving size we’d typically use. This year I did something different and used mini muffin tins. I’ve used regular sized muffin tins for freezing sauces and broth and the mini muffin tins hold just the right amount of pesto for one or two people (depending on what you’re using it for, of course!).

How to Freeze Pesto

Start by putting your pesto into the mini muffin tins. Because the pesto has olive oil in it, there’s no need to grease the them. Just freeze overnight, until the pesto is completely solid.

Pop the cubes out of the muffin tins with a butterknife.

Store in a freezer bag for up to six months.

Stir frozen pesto cubes into hot pasta or toss with roasted potatoes; allow to thaw or heat in a microwave if you want to use them on a pizza or sandwich. Another way I love to use these cubes is in minestrone soup—just toss one in before serving. Not only does it give the soup a fresh, vibrant flavor, but it cools it down too so you can eat a little sooner.

Want some more ideas? Here’s a few!

Roasted Pesto Potato Hash
Mini Vegetable Lasagnas
Pesto Pizza with Roasted Red Peppers, Cremini Mushrooms & Asparagus
Pesto-Roasted Veggie Sandwiches