How to run a minimal Linux inside a running 64-bit Windows 7
Solution 1:
I would go for the Xming + ssh -X solution.
1) I’m not sure - but you could run your Virtual Mashine in headless mode and launch applications through SSH. That would be pretty non-intrusive,
2) I would.
3) If its a minimal distro you should be fine with a couple of GB of space for the root filesystem / and around 200mb RAM.
4) Yes
Solution 2:
My way is virtualbox or vmware with the minimal or lighter linux you can run, and you can use vnc between those systems, o TeamViewer for communication.