Preheat oven to 425°F.
In a large bowl, sift together flour, salt and baking soda. I like to mix with a fork after sifting to fully combine all the dry ingredients.
Make a well in the middle of the flour mixture. Slowly add most of the buttermilk mixing thoroughly until well combined. The dough should be soft but not wet.
Place the dough on a floured surface and knead lightly. Form the dough into an 8 inch circle. It will appear a bit flat but it will rise in the oven.
Place on a floured or parchment lined cookie sheet.
With a sharp knife, cut a 1 inch deep cross on the top of the bread.
Brush the top with olive oil.
Bake for 25-35 minutes until golden brown and the dough has a hollow sound when tapped on the bottom. Cool on a wire rack and serve warm.