Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.
Cream butter in a large mixing
bowl. Add the vanilla then gradually add the 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar,
beating until light and fluffy. Sift the flour, measure, then sift again with the
salt. Add gradually to the butter mixture. Add the pecans and mix well.
Shape the dough into 1-inch balls
and place 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Flatten slightly using the
bottom of a glass, then bake for 20 minutes, or until edges are very lightly
browned. Remove the cookies from the baking sheets and roll in powdered sugar
while still hot. Cool on wire racks and roll cookies again in powdered sugar before
serving.