Star Mint Meringues

Preheat oven to 200 degrees F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper; set aside. In a large bowl combine egg whites, cream of tartar, peppermint extract, and salt. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form (tips curl). Gradually add sugar, about 1 tablespoon at a time, beating on high speed until stiff peaks form (tips stand straight).

With a clean small paintbrush, brush stripes of red paste food coloring on the inside of a pastry bag fitted with a 1/2-inch open-star tip. Carefully transfer egg white mixture to the pastry bag. Pipe 2-inch stars 1 inch apart onto prepared cookie sheet.

Bake for 1-1/2 hours or until meringues appear dry and are firm when lightly touched. Transfer cookies to a wire rack; let cool.