If you're looking for a fine combo of cleats+shoes, this is my suggestion:

- Shimano SPD-SL R540 those are nice for newcomers, their spring preload is lower to ease the clip-in & clip-out. I use routinely the same ones but on wide platform (the R550 ones).
- Specialized Sport Road shoes. Nice ones. Around 90-100US$. If is your first setup you may need to know that the stronger sole, less power wasted on pedal motion so the shoes are more expensive. Yes is nice to have a ultra-zoot carbon fiber sole, but sometimes less stronger soles are better to get a grasp.