RoseQueen, I actually agree with you that the Nimzo-Indian is an awesome and unique d4 defense, but think that playing something more "standard" is better for a beginner just learning the game. I would probably just recommend d5 against d4 as Black to get a feel for a more positional type of game, and e5 against e4 to play classical positions from Black's point of view.
As White, I VERY strongly recommend playing e4 at the beginning as White followed by the Italian Game: 1. e4 e5 2. Kf3 Kc6 3. Bc4
The Italian Game (Giuco Piano, Quiet Game) is a very fun opening and isn't quiet at all. It is also the best opening to teach basic tactics, in my opinion. It is really hard for a beginner to see the advantages of the Ruy Lopez, and it is unneccessary to subject oneself to it at that point, although eventually you will want to study it.
After a while, once you have some basic ideas down and can think ahead 2-3 moves, you could try the Queen's Gambit. Beginners often accept it, which is simply an amazingly fun game (for White that is, haha), as Black then typically does a miserable job defending at that level. And if they play a Slav or something, see if you like the positional feel of the game and choose openings to stick to from there. :)
Oh, and if it's a gambit you want (which I would really not recommend for anyone under 1300-1400 or so), I very much enjoy the Blackmar-Deimer Gambit. :D
^seems to me like you are scared of playing chess,there are other hobbies for you,like nitting,that don't involve any risks. You think the French is "super solid"? wrong,misplaying the French can leave you facing an awesome kingside attack.
Most of white's gambits after e4 e5 are not that difficult to deal with. Also,no one falls for the Fried liver these days. No one. Again,to play,and get better,you must lose. The point is to be play and not be scared of everything someone can throw at you.
Here is my recommendation OP: Against e4,e5 is the only way to go. And against d4,KID. Always KID. I'd say play the Nimzo which is,to me at least,a complete refutation of d4 openings *puts up flame shield*,but,because it's so strong most white players avoid it. Don't belive me? ask any d4 player A class or stronger if they ever allow Nimzos. 9/10 won't.
I play gambit myself, but the point is that if I'm going to play the 2N against you I go prepared, it's not the kind of opening that you can play just like that. Here we're not talking about people of your level ... Yes in the French you can get crushed, but not right away same with the Caro. Regards