Thick, Soft, and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Mix flour, baking soda, and salt.

Beat butter, sugar, and vanilla with a mixer on medium speed until well blended. Beat in egg, mixing well. Add flour mixture, and beat slowly to incorporate, then beat to blend well. Stir in chocolate chips and nuts.

Drop batter in 2-tablespoon portions about 2 inches apart on baking sheets. Bake in a 400 degrees F oven until edges of cookies are brown but an area about 1 inch wide in the center is still pale, 6 to 7 minutes.

If using 2 pans in one oven, switch positions at half-time. Let cookies cool on pan about 5 minutes, then transfer to racks with a spatula.

Serve warm or cool. Store airtight up to 8 hours, or freeze for longer storage.