Test Restore question

Hello!
I'm looking to test restore some backups I made for my boss, and after extensive reading I still find myself a bit unsure. Running acronis 10
He backs up and stores all his data on his work server, which he wants me to test restore on his home server. Both have several drives and windows 7 along with windows server essentials 2011.

I'm reluctant to do this on either machine because they're both pretty important to him (not to mention expensive) and I don't want to mess something up just to test a restore.
I created a bootable DVD, which seemed the easiest most convenient option (if there is a better option, i'd love to know more).
Is there a test restore guide or FAQ somewhere? Because after a week of reading acronis guides, forum posts, etc. My brain is a little fried and I still don't have all the answers or know-how that i'd like to.
Furthermore, is there a better place to test a restore? I've heard mixed things about restoring to a VM.

Essentially I'd like to know whats the safest, easiest, cheapest way to test this out? Can I pop in the bootable media disc, look around, and pop it back out without making changes? My apologies if I'm posting this in the wrong place/format/etc.

Any feedback would be tremendously appreciated.
Thanks!