01 - Preheat oven to 325°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded coconut, granulated sugar, salt, egg whites, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture holds together when pressed.
03 - Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded mounds of the mixture onto prepared baking sheets. Space each macaroon approximately 1 inch apart to allow for slight spreading during baking.
04 - Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, rotating pans halfway through, until macaroons are golden brown on top and set at the edges.
05 - Remove from oven and allow macaroons to cool completely on the baking sheets. The texture will firm as they cool.
06 - For chocolate-dipped macaroons, melt semisweet chocolate and dip the bottom of each cooled macaroon into the chocolate. Place on parchment-lined tray and allow chocolate to set completely before serving.