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Cassandra Cains's avatarCassandra Cains

Olive Oil Pastry Recipe

A quick and reliable no-butter pastry made with olive oil. Flaky and forgiving—perfect for galettes, tarts, and pies.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: baking, basics, dough
Cuisine: Mediterranean, modern australia, Vegan

Ingredients
  

  • 250 g plain flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp caster sugar optional
  • 70 ml olive oil extra virgin
  • 70 ml cold water

Equipment

  • Food Processor optional
  • Bowl
  • Fork

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl or food processor, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
  2. Add the olive oil and mix with a spoon or fork (or pulse in the food processor) until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Slowly add the cold water, mixing or pulsing just until a dough forms. You may not need all the water—stop when it just comes together.
  4. Gently bring the dough into a ball. Avoid overmixing or kneading.
  5. Flatten into a disc, wrap in parchment or beeswax wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Roll out on a lightly floured surface or between two sheets of parchment paper when ready to use.

Notes

  • Make Ahead: Dough can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge, tightly wrapped. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before using.
  • Texture Tip: For flakier results, make sure your water is ice-cold. You can even chill your flour beforehand on hot days.
  • Rolling Tip: If the dough feels too firm after chilling, let it rest at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before rolling.
  • Baking Uses: This dough is perfect for galettes, savory tarts, hand pies, and freeform pies. Avoid overly wet fillings to keep the base crisp.
  • Vegan Option: This pastry is naturally vegan with no substitutions needed. It works beautifully for plant-based bakes.
  • Flavour Variations: Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for a savory twist, or citrus zest for sweet bakes.