Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and nuts, if using.
Scoop out tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
