Ice cube trays make it easy to portion out your pesto so you can grab and defrost the exact amount that you need for a future recipe.

Another option is to store the cubes in an airtight container.

If you’re in a rush, stick the pesto cubes in the microwave for 30 seconds. Keep heating the cubes in 30-second increments until the pesto is thawed and warm. Stir through your pesto with a fork to make sure it’s an even consistency.

This freezing method works well if you’re planning on thawing your pesto all at once. Stick the pesto container in the refrigerator when you’re ready to thaw it. Be sure to use any pesto within 3 days so it stays fresh. [5] X Research source

Like the ice cube tray method, this strategy lets you thaw out as much or as little pesto as you need. Thaw the pesto pieces in a bowl at room temperature for 20 minutes or so, or microwave it in 30-second bursts to thaw the pesto more quickly. [7] X Research source

Transfer the pesto pieces to a bowl on your table or countertop. Let the pesto thaw at room temperature for around 20 minutes, or microwave the bowl in 30-second increments to warm it up more quickly. [9] X Research source

This trick works best when you’re freezing pesto in a freezer-safe container.

Freezing plain pesto gives you a little more flexibility in your recipes, too! That way, you aren’t limited to using your frozen pesto for recipes that call for a specific amount of cheese.