Herbed Buttermilk Biscuits

Preheat the oven to 425° F.

In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder and pepper. Scatter the butter overtop. Using a pastry cutter or you fingertips, work the butter into the flour mixture until the pieces are no larger than peas. Add the herbs and buttermilk, stirring just to blend well. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured work surface, then, using your fingertips, press the dough into a circle about 1/2-inch thick.

Cut 2-inch rounds with a biscuit cutter (or use the rim of a drinking glass). Reshape any remaining dough, and cut more biscuits. Place the rounds on an ungreased baking sheet. Brush the biscuits with olive oil. Bake until golden brown, about 18-20 minutes.