preheat the oven to 350°F

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, mix together the butter and 1 cup of sugar until they are just combined.

Add the vanilla. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour and salt, then add them to the butter-and-sugar mixture.

Mix on low speed until the dough starts to come together. Dump onto a surface dusted with flour and shape into a flat disk. Roll the dough 1/2-inch thick

Cut apart into squares or triangles.

Place the cookies on an ungreased baking sheet and sprinkle with sugar.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the edges begin to brown. Allow to cool to room temperature.