Pre-heat the oven to 375ºF (176ºC).

In a small bowl, mix flour, baking soda and salt; set it aside.

In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugars with an electric mixer on medium speed, or mix with a spoon for about 1 minute or until fluffy, scraping the side of the bowl occasionally.

Beat in the egg and the vanilla extract until smooth.

Stir in the flour mixture until just blended (the dough will be stiff).

Stir in the chocolate chips and nuts if you’re adding those.

Drop the dough by the rounded tablespoonful onto ungreased cookie sheets, about two inches apart.

Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until light brown (the center will be soft).

Cool 2 minutes before removing the cookies from the sheet and putting them on a cooling rack.

Let them cool for about 30 minutes before sneaking a taste.