Preheat oven to 375 and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the shortening, granulated sugar, and brown sugar at medium-high speed until light and well combined.
Continue to mix at medium-high speed while adding in the egg and vanilla. Combine well.
Add the flour mixture to the large bowl in two parts, mixing at low speed after each addition until combined.
Stir in chocolate pieces (and nuts/raisins if desired).
Form balls using about 1 Tbsp of dough each time. Bake 9 minutes or until edges are golden. Allow several minutes to cool on baking sheet before removing to a rack.
