Lightly butter jelly roll pan. In 3 quart microwave safe casserole with high sides, mix sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, they syrup and 1 cup hot water. Cook on high until boiling, about 8 minutes. Cook until mixture reaches 260 degrees on candy thermometer, about 15 to 20 minutes.

When bubbling stops, stir in 2 tablespoons butter, the vanilla and food color. Pour into pan; cool about 5 minutes.

Lightly butter hands. Gather 1/6 of taffy into a ball. Pull until taffy holds its shape in a 1/2 inch thick strand. With buttered shears, cut into 1 inch lengths. Wrap each in plastic wrap. Makes 1 1/2 pounds.