Tossed salads are just what they sound like. All of the ingredients are tossed together with dressing and served, usually straight away. Since these are often made with delicate lettuces, they will begin to wilt the longer they sit. To keep them as fresh as possible, toss them right before you’re ready to eat.,

Composed salads are artfully arranged on a platter. Sometimes the components are dressed separately; other times the vinaigrette is drizzled over the whole thing.,

Bound salads are characterized by something that literally binds the ingredients together. Generally, that means mayonnaise. These salads are usually more hearty than something like a leafy green salad, and they can often be eaten with a spoon.,

No-lettuce salads rely on heartier alternatives like pasta or grains.