Savory Olive Rolls – A Simple Snack for a Picnic or Day Outdoors

Simple Snack for Picnic

Savory Olive Rolls –
A Simple Snack for a Picnic or Day Outdoors:

Soft, flavorful, and easy to pack –
the perfect bite to enjoy in nature or on a relaxed outing

Food tastes better outside.

Whether you’re walking a quiet trail,
sitting under a tree in the park, or resting beside a stream,
there’s something deeply satisfying about a
homemade snack you packed yourself.

These savory olive rolls are soft, quick to prepare,
and full of Mediterranean flavor.
Made with yogurt, olive oil, and chopped olives,
they’re just the kind of food that feels
right when you’re out in the fresh air.

In Israel, similar mini rolls are sometimes called ZAYTONIM
from the Hebrew word Zayit (olive).
You’ll find them in lunchboxes, road trips,
and homemade picnics across the country.

Savory Olive Rolls – A Simple Snack for a Picnic

🧾 Ingredients (makes 12–15 rolls):

For the dough:

  • 1 cup self-rising flour
    (or 1 cup all-purpose flour + 1 tsp baking powder)

  • 1 cup plain yogurt (150–200g)

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • A pinch of salt

For the filling:

  • ¾ cup pitted green or black olives, finely chopped

  • ½ tsp dried oregano or za’atar (optional)

  • Optional: 2 tbsp crumbled feta or grated cheese

For topping:

  • Olive oil for brushing

  • Sesame seeds or za’atar for garnish (optional)


👩‍🍳 Instructions:

  1. Mix the dough
    In a bowl, combine flour, yogurt, olive oil, and salt.
    Mix until a soft, smooth dough forms.
    If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour; if dry, add a little yogurt.

  2. Prepare the filling
    Mix the chopped olives with herbs and cheese (if using).

  3. Shape the rolls
    Divide the dough into 12–15 pieces.
    Flatten each one, place a small spoonful
    of filling in the center, and fold into a sealed roll or ball.

  4. Bake
    Place on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
    Brush with olive oil and sprinkle
    with sesame or za’atar if desired.
    Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes,
    until golden and lightly crisp.


🧺 Take It Outdoors

These rolls are meant to be shared.
Pack them for a picnic, a nature walk,
or a weekend hike.
They go beautifully with fresh vegetables,
hard-boiled eggs, or just a cool drink in the shade.

And if you’re looking for something to bring
to your next outdoor meal – this is a simple,
authentic choice rooted in the flavors of Israel.

🫒 Want more ideas for picnic-friendly Israeli food? Press Here