1. Preheat the oven to 225°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Add the egg whites to a clean dry mixing bowl and beat until foamy.

3. Add the cream of tartar and salt, then continue beating until soft peaks form.

4. Slowly add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while beating continuously.

5. Beat until the meringue becomes glossy and stiff peaks form.

6. Mix in the vanilla extract.

7. Lightly streak the inside of a piping bag with red and green gel food coloring.

8. Spoon the meringue into the piping bag fitted with a star tip.

9. Pipe small swirls onto the prepared baking sheet.

10. Top with festive sprinkles if desired.

11. Bake for 1 hour until the meringues feel dry.

12. Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let them sit inside for 30 to 45 minutes.

13. Cool completely before serving or storing.