Olive Flatbread is a rustic Mediterranean-style bread infused with the rich, savory taste of olives and fragrant olive oil. Soft on the inside with a lightly golden crust, this flatbread is perfect for dipping, wrapping, or serving alongside soups, salads, and mezze platters.

Inspired by traditional Mediterranean baking, this recipe highlights simple, wholesome ingredients—flour, olive oil, herbs, and olives—coming together to create a flavorful bread that feels both comforting and gourmet.

Why You'll Love Olive Flatbread

  • Soft, chewy texture with crisp edges
  • Rich olive and herb flavor
  • Easy stovetop or oven cooking
  • No complicated techniques
  • Perfect for Mediterranean meals and dips
  • Great for meal prep and gatherings
  • Vegetarian-friendly and easily vegan
  • Ready in under 45 minutes

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 2½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup plain yogurt (or plant-based yogurt)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ¼ cup warm water (as needed)

Olive Mixture

  • ¾ cup pitted Kalamata olives, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons green olives, chopped (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Optional Add-Ins

  • Crumbled feta cheese
  • Sun-dried tomatoes
  • Roasted garlic
  • Fresh rosemary
  • Sesame seeds or nigella seeds
  • Chili flakes

For Brushing

  • 2–3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • Fresh chopped parsley (optional)

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowl
  • Rolling pin
  • Skillet or baking tray
  • Spatula
  • Pastry brush

How to Make Olive Flatbread

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix:

  • Flour
  • Baking powder
  • Salt

Add yogurt and olive oil.

Mix until a soft dough forms.

Add warm water gradually if needed.

Knead for 3–5 minutes until smooth.

Cover and rest for 15–20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare Olive Filling

In a small bowl, combine:

  • Chopped olives
  • Oregano
  • Thyme
  • Olive oil

Mix well and set aside.

Step 3: Shape the Flatbread

Divide dough into 4–6 portions.

Roll each into a round or oval shape.

Lightly press some olive mixture into the dough or fold it inside for a stuffed style.

Step 4: Cook the Flatbread

Skillet Method (Recommended)

Heat a pan over medium heat.

Cook each flatbread for 2–3 minutes per side until golden spots appear.

Oven Method

Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C).

Bake for 7–10 minutes until lightly golden and puffed.

Step 5: Finish with Olive Oil

Brush warm flatbread with extra virgin olive oil.

Sprinkle with sea salt and fresh herbs.

Step 6: Serve

Serve warm with dips, salads, or Mediterranean mains.

Tips for Perfect Olive Flatbread

  • Use good-quality olives for best flavor
  • Pat olives dry before mixing into dough
  • Don’t overstuff or the bread may tear
  • Let dough rest for easier rolling
  • Brush with olive oil while still warm for maximum flavor

Delicious Variations

Cheese & Olive Flatbread

Add feta or mozzarella for a creamy, salty combination.

Herb Olive Flatbread

Add fresh rosemary, thyme, and basil into the dough for extra aroma.

Sun-Dried Tomato & Olive Flatbread

Mix chopped sun-dried tomatoes with olives for a richer Mediterranean flavor.

Spicy Olive Flatbread

Add chili flakes or finely chopped green chilies for heat.

Whole Wheat Olive Flatbread

Replace half the flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.

What to Serve with Olive Flatbread

This flatbread pairs beautifully with:

  • Hummus
  • Tzatziki
  • Baba ganoush
  • Olive tapenade
  • Lentil soup
  • Mediterranean salads
  • Grilled vegetables
  • Cheese boards
  • Roasted meats or kebabs

Storage Tips

  • Store at room temperature for 1–2 days in an airtight container
  • Refrigerate for up to 4 days
  • Freeze for up to 2 months
  • Reheat on a skillet or oven before serving

Nutrition (Approximate Per Flatbread)

  • Calories: 200
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg

Nutrition values vary based on olive type and added ingredients.

Health Benefits

Olives are rich in healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants that support heart health. Olive oil enhances these benefits while adding flavor and moisture. When paired with yogurt-based dough and herbs, this flatbread becomes a balanced Mediterranean-style bread that is both satisfying and wholesome.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use black olives instead of Kalamata olives?

Yes. Any pitted black or green olives work well depending on your flavor preference.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes. Refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Why is my flatbread dry?

Overcooking or adding too much flour can dry it out. Cook just until golden spots appear.

Can I make it vegan?

Yes. Use plant-based yogurt and olive oil instead of dairy yogurt.

Final Thoughts

Olive Flatbread is a simple yet flavorful Mediterranean bread that celebrates the bold, briny taste of olives combined with soft, golden dough and aromatic herbs. Whether served fresh off the skillet or baked in the oven, it’s the perfect companion for dips, soups, and shared meals. Easy to make and endlessly versatile, this flatbread brings authentic Mediterranean warmth to your table with every bite.