01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl; set aside.
03 - In a large bowl, whisk melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and glossy.
04 - Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until thoroughly combined.
05 - Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just incorporated; avoid overmixing.
06 - Fold in chocolate chips or chopped nuts if using.
07 - Scoop heaping tablespoons of dough onto prepared sheets, spacing at least 2 inches apart, flatten slightly for crisp edges if desired.
08 - Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until edges turn golden brown and crisp while centers remain set.
09 - Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.